Terry Hildebrand

Edmonton, AB

Originally from a small town in Manitoba, Terry Hildebrand currently lives in Edmonton where he is working as a ceramic artist. In May 2014 he graduated with a MFA in ceramics from the University of Minnesota. Terry received his BFA Honours degree in May 2007 from University of Manitoba. From 2008 until 2011 he worked as a studio technician in the ceramics department at the University of Manitoba. Aside from his MFA thesis exhibition at the Nash Gallery, Minneapolis, he has been part of several group shows at the Quarter Gallery, Minneapolis, the Manitoba Crafts Museum, the Gallery of Student Art, Outworks Gallery, and Ace Art in Winnipeg.
Terry makes ceramic work out of porcelain, with a focus on teapots and cups. He fires the pieces in a soda or a wood kiln to give them a delicate flashing of reds, oranges, blues and greens. The earthy tones reflect the earthen qualities of clay. He presents his work in groupings, mostly on wooden trays. Good craftsmanship, ergonomics, and visual balance are important to his work. The main purpose of his utilitarian ceramic work is undeniably its function. The ritual of its use becomes a central experience. He creates playful sets that entice the users to interact with each other and the tray. The sharing of food, drink, fellowship, and play lie at the heart of our existence and the conscious ritual and enjoyment of these are greatly enhanced by the experience of the visual and tactile senses that the ceramic wares address.